The USA wrapped up its September camp with a convincing 2-0 win over Japan in Columbus after losing 2-0 to South Korea.

This September window was one of four international windows left before the start of final World Cup preparations next summer. The next are in October, November and March. After that will be the run-up camp in May/June that will consist of the final roster and the tune-up friendlies.

Each of these windows are important steps for Pochettino and progress will be measured by what he learns and how he adjusts both the player pool and how the players are utilized. Of course, all of this is supplemented by how the players perform with their clubs in the times between the camps.

With the September window now in the history books and October on deck, let’s take a look back and a look ahead with how the players performed, tactics, and how the player pool might have shifted.

September Stock Up

Chris Richards: The Crystal Palace central defender is the glue in the USMNT backline right now. After Richards, there is a soon-to-be 38-year-old Tim Ream and a long list of players with no clear hierarchy. It is scary for Pochettino to think about what would happen to the team if Richards picked up an injury. Richards is playing very well right now for both his club and the USMNT. He had a good window coming on for the second half against South Korea to settle the game down and then starting in the shutout against Japan. Opponents did not score on the USMNT when he was on the field.

Sergino Dest: The PSV outside back made his first USMNT appearance under Pochettino and did not disappoint. Against South Korea, he was good in the first half but tired in the second half. Then against Japan, he came into the game in the second half and kept the team’s pressure up — forcing a save and setting up a Jack McGlynn chance. He looks ready to contribute under this staff.

Folarin Balogun: The AS Monaco forward enjoyed a very good window in his first camp with Pochettino. He came in the second half against South Korea and had the team’s best chances of the game. Against Japan, he made effective runs and scored a goal. Balogun made a strong case to be part of the team moving forward.

Max Arfsten and Cristian Roldan warm up ahead of their starts against Japan. (Photo: Mike Woitalla)

Max Arfsten: The Columbus Crew left back was only average against South Korea in a traditional four-man backline. But when the team moved to a wingback formation against Japan, Arfsten came to life and assisted on the team’s opening goal. He looked very comfortable playing a role that closely resembles the one for the Crew. If Pochettino wants to continue to use this formation, Arfsten is a good candidate to be Antonee Robinson’s backup.

Alejandro Zendejas: The Club America winger/attacking midfielder was surprised he was called up for this window and his history with the national team hasn’t been solid as he has struggled to translate his impressive club form to the international level. But this was the most comfortable Zendejas has ever looked for the USMNT as he did well off the bench against South Korea and then started against Japan and opened the scoring. He made a strong case to return in October.